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10 Highest Earning Musicians In Africa According To Forbes: Net Worth And Career Achievements
The African music industry has seen remarkable growth, with artists achieving global recognition, earning millions of dollars, and influencing international music trends. The top African musicians have built empires beyond music, establishing themselves as global icons. According to Forbes, these are the top 10 highest-earning musicians in Africa in 2024, detailing their net worth and career achievements.
1. Akon - Net Worth: $80 Million
Aliaune Thiam, popularly known as Akon, remains the highest-earning musician in Africa. Born in the United States to Senegalese parents, Akon is not just a musician but a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist. Known for hits like "Smack That" and "Lonely," Akon has sold millions of records worldwide and has worked with global superstars like Eminem, Snoop Dogg, and Michael Jackson.
Beyond music, Akon is an astute businessman. He has launched numerous ventures, including his own record label, Konvict Muzik, and a cryptocurrency called Akoin aimed at empowering African entrepreneurs. Akon Lighting Africa, his initiative to provide solar energy to millions of Africans, highlights his commitment to improving lives on the continent. With a net worth of $80 million, Akon’s influence extends far beyond the music industry.
2. Black Coffee - Net Worth: $60 Million
Nkosinathi Innocent Maphumulo, known as Black Coffee, is a South African DJ and producer celebrated for his unique blend of deep house music. Black Coffee’s career took off in the early 2000s, and he has since become one of the most sought-after DJs globally, performing at prestigious venues and festivals such as Coachella and Tomorrowland.
Black Coffee's net worth of $60 million is a result of his global tours, music sales, and numerous brand endorsements, including collaborations with luxury brands like AXE and Hyperion. In 2022, he won a Grammy Award for Best Dance/Electronic Album, further cementing his status as a global icon in the electronic music scene.
3. Davido - Net Worth: $45 Million
Davido, born David Adedeji Adeleke, is another powerhouse in the African music industry. Known for his energetic performances and catchy hits like "Fall" and "If," Davido has amassed millions of followers worldwide. His label, DMW (Davido Music Worldwide), has been instrumental in launching the careers of several rising stars.
Davido’s net worth is bolstered by his music sales, live performances, and endorsement deals with brands like MTN, Infinix, GAC Motors and Martell. He is also an astute businessman with investments in various sectors, including real estate and automotive. Davido's ability to blend his Nigerian roots with global sounds has made him one of Africa's most recognized artists.
4. Wizkid - Net Worth: $35 Million
Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid, is one of Africa’s most influential artists. Often referred to as Starboy, Wizkid has been a driving force behind the global rise of Afrobeats. His collaborations with international artists like Drake, Beyoncé, and Justin Bieber have elevated him to global stardom.
Wizkid’s wealth comes from record sales, sold-out tours, and endorsements with brands such as Ciroc, Nike, and Puma. He was the first Nigerian artist to achieve a Billboard Hot 100 number-one hit with Drake’s "One Dance." His 2020 album "Made in Lagos" received critical acclaim, further solidifying his place as one of Africa's musical giants.
5. Burna Boy - Net Worth: $22 Million
Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, known professionally as Burna Boy, is one of Africa’s most celebrated musicians. With a unique sound that combines Afrobeat, dancehall, reggae, and pop, Burna Boy has earned international recognition, including a Grammy Award in 2021 for Best Global Music Album.
Burna Boy’s wealth is derived from record sales, international tours, and endorsements with brands such as Apple Music, Star Lager, and Chipper Cash. Known for his extravagant lifestyle, Burna Boy owns luxury properties and a fleet of high-end cars. His music continues to resonate globally, making him one of Africa’s most influential voices.
6. 2Baba (2Face Idibia) - Net Worth: $18 Million
Innocent Ujah Idibia, better known as 2Baba, is a veteran in the Nigerian music scene. With over two decades of experience, 2Baba remains one of the most respected African musicians. His timeless hit "African Queen" brought him international fame, and he has since released several successful albums.
2Baba’s wealth comes from music, endorsements with brands like Glo and Campari, and strategic investments in real estate. He is also known for his philanthropic efforts, including his work with the 2Face Idibia Reach-Out Foundation, which supports underprivileged communities across Nigeria.
7. Rudeboy - Net Worth: $16 Million
Paul Okoye, known as Rudeboy, is one half of the former duo P-Square, which dominated African pop music for over a decade. After the group split, Rudeboy embarked on a successful solo career, releasing hits like "Reason With Me" and "Audio Money." His soulful voice and catchy hooks have continued to keep him relevant in the industry.
Rudeboy’s wealth is a result of music sales, live performances, and endorsement deals. He also has significant investments in real estate and other business ventures, contributing to his net worth of $16 million.
8. Olamide - Net Worth: $15 Million
Olamide Adedeji, known simply as Olamide, is a Nigerian rapper, singer, and songwriter who has had a profound impact on the music industry. As the founder of YBNL Nation, Olamide has nurtured many young talents, including Fireboy DML and Asake. Known for rapping in Yoruba, Olamide has released numerous hit albums and singles that have dominated charts in Nigeria and beyond.
Olamide’s earnings come from record sales, concert tours, and endorsements with brands like Ciroc and Itel Mobile. His influence extends beyond music, as he continues to champion the rise of indigenous rap in Nigeria.
9. Diamond Platnumz - Net Worth: $13 Million
Nasibu Abdul Juma Issack, known as Diamond Platnumz, is one of East Africa’s most successful musicians. Hailing from Tanzania, Diamond Platnumz has gained international recognition with hits like "Number One" and "Jeje." He is known for his versatility, blending Bongo Flava with Afrobeat, R&B, and other global sounds.
Diamond’s wealth comes from his music, his Wasafi Classic Baby (WCB) record label, and endorsement deals with brands like Pepsi and Vodacom. He is also a shrewd businessman with investments in media and real estate, making him one of the wealthiest artists in Africa.
10. Tiwa Savage - Net Worth: $10 Million
Tiwa Savage, known as the Queen of Afrobeats, has carved a niche for herself in a male-dominated industry. With hits like "All Over" and "Koroba," Tiwa has become a leading figure in African music. She has collaborated with global artists like Beyoncé and continues to break barriers for African women in music.
Tiwa Savage’s net worth is driven by her music, endorsements with brands like Pepsi and Maggi, and her fashion ventures. She also runs her own entertainment and management company, 323 Entertainment, which has been pivotal in shaping her brand.
Conclusion
These African musicians have not only conquered their home markets but have also achieved significant success on the global stage. Their wealth is a testament to their talent, hard work, and business acumen. By leveraging their influence in music, fashion, and other ventures, these artists have positioned themselves as some of the most successful entertainers in the world, making Africa proud.
